Spurs go on a tear, East bests West, Cavs avenge loss.

Kawhi's strong run led to two blowouts in Denver.

The Spurs hit another win streak, crushing the Jazz on the road as Utah could never build momentum, then crossing over into Denver, braving the wintry weather for two one-sided victories thanks to a strong return to form by Kawhi Leonard, as he scored 30+ on both occasions.

All*Star Weekend followed, which saw a one-sided first half of dominance by the East team transform into a double overtime thriller that looked to be a comeback win for the West twice over, yet James Harden and Steph Curry had two chances to win at the buzzer, squandering DeMarcus Cousins' strong play with a career-high 8 blocks, besting his previous of 7. Kawhi Leonard had his moments in the exhibition of elites, but didn't have his best outing.

Pau Gasol had 11 points and 11 rebounds in the loss.

Then the Cavaliers got revenge for their earlier loss this season to the Spurs, holding off the defending champions with a sound effort all game long, winning 102-111 in "The Land." A notable moment erupted when LeBron slammed the ball through the net over Pau Gasol, 'The King' scoring 23 points, 10 rebounds and 5 assists. Danny Green scorched his old team with 15 points, but Rodney Hood was the surprise treat with 15 points whose strong play gave Cleveland an early lead. George Hill had 12 points, as Kevin Love netted 11 points, 8 rebounds and 2 blocks.

Once again, Kawhi Leonard had a strong effort with 33 points, making some impressive shots from all over the court, netting a quartet of three-pointers, swiping 5 steals. Patty Mills kept the Spurs within striking distance with 17 points and 6 assists, but the Spurs didn't have a strong team effort. Jeremy Lamb went 5/13 for 11 points and 0/4 from deep and Mario Hezonja went 2/10. Iman Shumpert struck out from 3PT territory and even Kawhi's long ball misfired as the game went on. Cleveland won the 1st quarter 28-19, and the 3rd 27-18, shooting better overall (54% v. 44%) and collaborating on 25 assists, dominating the boards 45-36 and only committing 12 turnovers. Taking it on the chin, San Antonio preps for yet another contentious clash with Golden State.